Rachel and Gary’s wedding day was one of the coldest and windiest days in Chicago, but it was easy for their family and friends to warm up because they were greeted by the sweet breath of the heated entryway which would be the first beautiful experience of this amazing evening. As the late afternoon spilled over into evening, the chandeliers were dimmed, candles were lit, and the grand ballroom glowed to life as guests arrived. Hanukkah began for all of Chicago this moment on December 21st, and to get in the mood, the amazingly talented Maxwell Street Klezmer Band started playing traditional Jewish music, in their well-known kaleidoscope style.
A quiet joy was palpable in the room as Rachel and her parents entered through the great doors and made their way underneath the beautiful chuppah. We love wedding ceremonies that take place in the round; it’s a unique and intimate arrangement that truly allows all of the guests to feel included as they envelop the wedding couple who exchange vows in the center, with their own warmth, love, and support.
The details that were sprinkled over Rachel and Gary’s wedding were marvelous! The elegant hand-made favors were miniature scrolls of thanks and blessings with a burgundy pouch of velvet that contained gelt and a dreidel! Hundreds of glowing candles and roses of pink, white, and red drenched the room with color and heat.
This special Hanukkah wedding was gave a whole new meaning to the Festival of Lights.
Mazel tov, Rachel and Gary!
Venue and Catering – Germania Place, Chicago
Photographer – LaRae & Cory Lobdell / Lifework Images
Florist – Bonnie Flower Shop, Inc.
Makeup – Kristen Terese
Bridesmaid Attire – David’s Bridal
Tuxedo – Formerly Modern Tuxedo
Wedding Cake – Dana at Sweety Pies Bakery
Band – Maxwell Street Klezmer Band
DJ – Michael Schweda
Wedding Bands – Israel Blessing, Tel Aviv, Israel
